In Kenya, women are recycling synthetic wigs and hair extensions in an effort to reduce plastic waste in the East African nation. They are turning the waste into door mats.

Women recycle wigs to door mats

A story of resilience from Pastoralists who depend on livestock for the livelihood and how they have overcome all odds and calamities like severe drought and climate change to maintain a life-long tradition and culture. This is the story of the Toposa tribe

Resilient pastoralists of South Sudan

Kenya's government says that its police officers will not be deployed to Haiti until all conditions on training and funding are met in line with last month’s approval from the UN security council to give the Eastern African country command of a multinational mission to combat violent gangs in the troubled Caribbean country. Meanwhile, Haiti is reporting a fresh round of gang-related killings and kidnappings as it awaits help.

Kenya: Mission to Haiti stalled yet again

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently deployed over 3000 soldiers on the ground to fight the country’s growing scourge- illegal mining. For years the country has been battling with this problem and the authorities seem confident that they will leave no stone unturned.

Illegal mines of South Africa

On the occasion of World's Rhino's Day let me bring you some good news. The year 2022 is marked as a triumphant comeback for africa's rhino's, with their numbers on the rise for the first time in almost a decade...this is can be seen as a major boost to conservation efforts the rhino numbers have grown across africa in 2022. As per the international union for conservation of nature over 23 thousand roam the continent, and this number is seen 5.2 per cent increase from 2021 data.

African rhinos number rise for the first time in a decade

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso military leaders establish security alliance. The alliance of Sahel states (AES) aims to "establish an architecture of collective defence and mutual assistance" for the benefit of populations.

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso sign Sahel security pact

At the United Nations general assembly, the African ministers called for expanding the security council to include permanent representation for their continent and stressed the vital role of socio-economic development in ensuring peace.

After G20, Africa now eyes UNSC

South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma reported back to prison on Friday only to be swiftly released, in a government move lashed by the opposition as a "monumental insult" to the public.

In the latest twist arising from a sentence for contempt of court, Zuma was ordered to report back to jail, arriving at 6:00 am (0400 GMT) at a detention facility in the eastern town of Estcourt, the prison service said.

There, he was "admitted into the system" -- only to be let go in just over an hour, under a "remission process" to ease overcrowding in prison, according to the national commissioner of correctional services, Makgothi Thobakgale.&nbsp;

"Upon admission into the system he was subjected to administrative processes... He was then released," Thobakgale told a press conference in Pretoria.

Zuma, 81, was sentenced to 15 months in June 2021 after refusing to testify before a panel probing financial corruption and cronyism under his presidency.

He started serving his term in July 2021, sparking protests that descended into riots and looting that left more than 350 dead in the worst violence to hit South Africa since the advent of democracy.

But after just two months he was freed on medical parole for an undisclosed condition.

In November last year an appeals court found the release was illegally granted and ordered Zuma back to the Estcourt Correctional Centre in KwaZulu-Natal province.

South Africa's prison service, which had granted Zuma's conditional release, appealed the decision, but the bid was dismissed by the Constitutional Court last month.

<h2>Release</h2>

Thobakgale said the ex-president had been ordered to return to jail on Friday in compliance with the ruling.&nbsp;

But Zuma immediately benefited from a remission of non-violent offenders approved by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said.&nbsp;

Mzwanele Manyi, a spokesman for Zuma's foundation said the ex-president was "at home" and consulting with his legal team.

The decision was met with outrage by some opposition parties and scepticism from the press, with Thobakgale and Lamola facing a barrage of questions over the timing of the remission process, which began on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-african-foreign-minister-pandor-lauds-indias-important-role-in-brics-623433">Also read:&nbsp;South African Foreign Minister Pandor lauds India`s important role in BRICS</a>

Lamola said the "exercise of exploring special remission" started in April, and more than 24,000 inmates, about two-thirds of them currently under correctional supervision and parole, would be released under the process.&nbsp;

The move "will alleviate overcrowding" which "poses a direct threat to inmate health, security, and management, and it could lead to a surge in gangsterism," the minister said.

<h2>'Insult'</h2>

The Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's leading opposition party, said it would seek legal action, &nbsp;adding Zuma's release was a "monumental insult to each and every South African."

"This decision has nothing to do (with) overcrowding, and everything to do with preventing Zuma from facing accountability for his actions," said Glynnis Breytenbach, the DA's shadow justice minister.&nbsp;

"The precedent has been clearly set. If you are a senior ANC member, you will never be held accountable for your crimes".

Watch:&nbsp;South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION

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Zuma is a senior member of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), in power since the end of white-minority rule in 1994.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He served as president from 2009 to 2018 before being forced out over graft allegations.

But as one of the dwindling generation of ANC anti-apartheid fighters, he remains deeply popular with many grassroots members.

The party is in the doldrums as it seeks to continue its reign in government as elections loom next year.

Polls suggest the ANC could see its vote drop below 50 per cent, battered by discontent at corruption, power cuts and entrenched unemployment.

Besides his 2021 contempt-of-court conviction, Zuma is facing separate charges of corruption in an arms procurement scandal dating to the late 1990s, when he was vice president.

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&nbsp;

South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma reported back to prison on Friday only to be swiftly released, in a government move lashed by the opposition as a "monumental insult" to the public.

South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma reported back to prison on Friday only to be swiftly released, in a government move lashed by the opposition as a "monumental insult" to the public. In the latest twist arising from a sentence for contempt of court, Zuma was ordered to report back to jail, arriving at 6:00 am (0400 GMT) at a detention facility in the eastern town of Estcourt, the prison service said. There, he was "admitted into the system" -- only to be let go in just over an hour, under a "remission process" to ease overcrowding in prison, according to the national commissioner of correctional services, Makgothi Thobakgale. "Upon admission into the system he was subjected to administrative processes... He was then released," Thobakgale told a press conference in Pretoria. Zuma, 81, was sentenced to 15 months in June 2021 after refusing to testify before a panel probing financial corruption and cronyism under his presidency. He started serving his term in July 2021, sparking protests that descended into riots and looting that left more than 350 dead in the worst violence to hit South Africa since the advent of democracy. But after just two months he was freed on medical parole for an undisclosed condition. In November last year an appeals court found the release was illegally granted and ordered Zuma back to the Estcourt Correctional Centre in KwaZulu-Natal province. South Africa's prison service, which had granted Zuma's conditional release, appealed the decision, but the bid was dismissed by the Constitutional Court last month. Release Thobakgale said the ex-president had been ordered to return to jail on Friday in compliance with the ruling. But Zuma immediately benefited from a remission of non-violent offenders approved by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said. Mzwanele Manyi, a spokesman for Zuma's foundation said the ex-president was "at home" and consulting with his legal team. The decision was met with outrage by some opposition parties and scepticism from the press, with Thobakgale and Lamola facing a barrage of questions over the timing of the remission process, which began on Friday. Also read: South African Foreign Minister Pandor lauds India`s important role in BRICS Lamola said the "exercise of exploring special remission" started in April, and more than 24,000 inmates, about two-thirds of them currently under correctional supervision and parole, would be released under the process. The move "will alleviate overcrowding" which "poses a direct threat to inmate health, security, and management, and it could lead to a surge in gangsterism," the minister said. 'Insult' The Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's leading opposition party, said it would seek legal action, adding Zuma's release was a "monumental insult to each and every South African." "This decision has nothing to do (with) overcrowding, and everything to do with preventing Zuma from facing accountability for his actions," said Glynnis Breytenbach, the DA's shadow justice minister. "The precedent has been clearly set. If you are a senior ANC member, you will never be held accountable for your crimes". Watch: South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION × Zuma is a senior member of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), in power since the end of white-minority rule in 1994. He served as president from 2009 to 2018 before being forced out over graft allegations. But as one of the dwindling generation of ANC anti-apartheid fighters, he remains deeply popular with many grassroots members. The party is in the doldrums as it seeks to continue its reign in government as elections loom next year. Polls suggest the ANC could see its vote drop below 50 per cent, battered by discontent at corruption, power cuts and entrenched unemployment. Besides his 2021 contempt-of-court conviction, Zuma is facing separate charges of corruption in an arms procurement scandal dating to the late 1990s, when he was vice president. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South Africa's ex-president Zuma released an hour after reporting at prison

A week after the black sea grain deal expired, there seems to be no hope for negotiations. While many African nations worry over an impending food crisis, Russia has said they it may just be the replacement to Ukraine's grain export. will the stakes running high, will Putin fill the gap in foograin supply?

Failed grain deal worries African nations

South Africa has taken a quantum leap in encouraging inclusivity for people with disabilities in the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially made sign language official.

South Africa makes sign language official

A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache.

The man, named Tembu Ebere, is a comedian on Nigerian social media. Before embarking on the daring endeavour, Ebere reportedly promoted his ‘cry campaign’ on TikTok.&nbsp;

In one of his posts, he wrote, “Send me your troubles, I'll cry for you."

It was not immediately clear what exactly caused the temporary blindness but it might be linked to severe headaches and a build-up of pressure in the eyes.

<h2>Attempt not acknowledged by Guinness World Record</h2>

His daring challenge, which took a heavy toll on his health and wellness, will not be acknowledged because Ebere is yet to formally join Guinness World Record. Thus, it was an unofficial attempt.&nbsp;

Ebere also said that he had to re-strategise his wailing due to the heavy physical and emotional toll. “I had to re-strategise and reduce my wailing," he told the media.

A four-day chef cooking extravaganza in Nigeria has captured the attention of the public, igniting a wave of ambitious record attempts, according to the official records website.

<h2>Flurry of record attempts in Nigeria</h2>

A flurry of record attempts has swept through the country since a four-day chef cooking marathon was held recently. Hilda Baci generated massive interest in Kenya after cooking continuously for 100 hours in a successful attempt to break the Guinness World Record.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;14% Nigerian women have experienced sexual violence: Report

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Such was the craze among the public that the Guinness World Records website itself experienced two days of outage.

This surge of enthusiasm to break and set records&nbsp;has not been limited to Hilda Baci's culinary marathon but&nbsp;has spread like wildfire, inspiring others to pursue unique and daring records.&nbsp;

Among the contenders is a woman attempting to fry the largest number of snails, a dedicated masseuse who collapsed while striving to achieve the longest non-stop massage, and another woman aiming to fry an unprecedented quantity of 'puff-puffs,' a beloved doughnut-like snack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thieves-steal-runway-lights-from-nigerias-busiest-airport-months-after-installation-615017">Also read:&nbsp;Thieves steal runway lights from Nigeria’s busiest airport months after installation</a>

Similarly, John Obot has set his sights on breaking the record for the longest time reading aloud without pause, with a goal of surpassing the current record of 124 hours set last year by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan. His noble motivation is to promote a culture of reading in Nigeria.

<h2>Warning bells sounded</h2>

However, while these audacious record-breaking attempts have become a trend, some valid concerns have also emerged.&nbsp;The officials at Guinness World Records have urged Nigerians to exercise caution and prioritise safety above all.&nbsp;

"Please, enough of the record-a-thons," Guinness World Records stated on social media.

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&nbsp;

A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache.

A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache. The man, named Tembu Ebere, is a comedian on Nigerian social media. Before embarking on the daring endeavour, Ebere reportedly promoted his ‘cry campaign’ on TikTok. In one of his posts, he wrote, “Send me your troubles, I'll cry for you." It was not immediately clear what exactly caused the temporary blindness but it might be linked to severe headaches and a build-up of pressure in the eyes. Attempt not acknowledged by Guinness World Record His daring challenge, which took a heavy toll on his health and wellness, will not be acknowledged because Ebere is yet to formally join Guinness World Record. Thus, it was an unofficial attempt. Ebere also said that he had to re-strategise his wailing due to the heavy physical and emotional toll. “I had to re-strategise and reduce my wailing," he told the media. A four-day chef cooking extravaganza in Nigeria has captured the attention of the public, igniting a wave of ambitious record attempts, according to the official records website. Flurry of record attempts in Nigeria A flurry of record attempts has swept through the country since a four-day chef cooking marathon was held recently. Hilda Baci generated massive interest in Kenya after cooking continuously for 100 hours in a successful attempt to break the Guinness World Record. Watch: 14% Nigerian women have experienced sexual violence: Report × Such was the craze among the public that the Guinness World Records website itself experienced two days of outage. This surge of enthusiasm to break and set records has not been limited to Hilda Baci's culinary marathon but has spread like wildfire, inspiring others to pursue unique and daring records. Among the contenders is a woman attempting to fry the largest number of snails, a dedicated masseuse who collapsed while striving to achieve the longest non-stop massage, and another woman aiming to fry an unprecedented quantity of 'puff-puffs,' a beloved doughnut-like snack. Also read: Thieves steal runway lights from Nigeria’s busiest airport months after installation Similarly, John Obot has set his sights on breaking the record for the longest time reading aloud without pause, with a goal of surpassing the current record of 124 hours set last year by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan. His noble motivation is to promote a culture of reading in Nigeria. Warning bells sounded However, while these audacious record-breaking attempts have become a trend, some valid concerns have also emerged. The officials at Guinness World Records have urged Nigerians to exercise caution and prioritise safety above all. "Please, enough of the record-a-thons," Guinness World Records stated on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Nigerian man turns blind after forcing himself to cry for a week

Zimbabwe is six weeks away from elections. The opposition party cried foul over police banning them from holding a rally to officially launch their election campaign. With the poll date closing in, can the country's history of violent elections be avoided?

Opposition protests cancelled rally

Researchers in Senegal have begun the harvest of home-grown experimental wheat which will help reduce the country's reliance on imports.

Experiments to reduce reliance on imports

A former banker's success story in the business of customising gravestones with portraits.

Zimbabwe: Former banker's unique business | World Of Africa

Countries in the four cardinal points of Africa witnessed many ruckuses on March 20th. Angry citizens of Kenya in the East, South Africa in the South, Senegal in the West, and Tunisia in the North— protested against the high cost of living, seeking constitutional reforms and a change in leadership.

Anti-government protests in four nations

The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has called for a nationwide shutdown on March 20 over increasing load shedding. Additional reasons for the strike are increasing inflation, recent corruption scandals involving the ruling African National Congress (ANC), and rising levels of insecurity.

Any LAWLESSNESS and VIOLENCE will not be tolerated: Government

Any lawlessness and violence will not be tolerated : Government

For a decade, offensive efforts have failed to stop an Islamist insurgency that has killed thousands and displaced millions. Security experts say it could worsen after thousands of French troops were forced out of Mali and Burkina Faso by military juntas this year.

Africa insurgency: Security experts say situation may get worse

Former President Jacob Zuma's son, Duduzane Zuma speaks to WION and shares his plans for president's position.

Politics should be inclusive not just old man's game: Zuma

Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime. Local officials who confirmed these abductions said the army and its civilian authorities carried out unsuccessful sweeps of the area.&nbsp;

Two Arbinda residents divulged details about the abductions. One resident told AFP on Sunday that on Thursday, the women got together with their carts to go and gather leaves and wild fruits in the bush as there was nothing left to eat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-eight-killed-in-roadside-bombing-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-552848">Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>

Another resident, a male, said that when the women did not come back on Thursday evening, "we thought that their carts had had a problem. But three survivors came back to tell us what happened." This resident said that on Friday, eight kilometres north of Arbinda, about 20 women who were not informed of the first abduction, were in turn taken. "In both groups, some women managed to escape and returned to the village on foot. We believe that the kidnappers took them to their bases," he added.&nbsp; 
The commune of Arbinda is located in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, an area under blockade by jihadist groups and with limited food supplies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/africa/dr-congo-five-killed-15-injured-in-bombing-in-church-ugandan-militant-group-likely-behind-attack-report-552894">DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report</a>

These abductions come after nine people were killed in a mosque attack in Goulgountou village of Sahel on Wednesday when suspected jihadists arrived on motorcycles and herded worshippers inside (mosque). "They separated the women, children and elderly and then made sermons to try to convince worshippers of abandoning their form of faith," a witness told AFP, adding "A discussion even started up with the imam, and because he refused he was executed." Eight other worshippers in the mosque, who were mainly community leaders, were killed.&nbsp;

And in November last year, at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-14-killed-in-two-attacks-in-burkina-faso-536740">14 people were killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups</a> in Burkina Faso's north.&nbsp;

Since 2015, the country has been battling a jihadist offensive in which thousands of civilians and security forces personnel have been killed and around two million people have been displaced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime.

Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime. Local officials who confirmed these abductions said the army and its civilian authorities carried out unsuccessful sweeps of the area. Two Arbinda residents divulged details about the abductions. One resident told AFP on Sunday that on Thursday, the women got together with their carts to go and gather leaves and wild fruits in the bush as there was nothing left to eat. ALSO READ | Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility Another resident, a male, said that when the women did not come back on Thursday evening, "we thought that their carts had had a problem. But three survivors came back to tell us what happened." This resident said that on Friday, eight kilometres north of Arbinda, about 20 women who were not informed of the first abduction, were in turn taken. "In both groups, some women managed to escape and returned to the village on foot. We believe that the kidnappers took them to their bases," he added. The commune of Arbinda is located in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, an area under blockade by jihadist groups and with limited food supplies. ALSO READ | DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report These abductions come after nine people were killed in a mosque attack in Goulgountou village of Sahel on Wednesday when suspected jihadists arrived on motorcycles and herded worshippers inside (mosque). "They separated the women, children and elderly and then made sermons to try to convince worshippers of abandoning their form of faith," a witness told AFP, adding "A discussion even started up with the imam, and because he refused he was executed." Eight other worshippers in the mosque, who were mainly community leaders, were killed. And in November last year, at least 14 people were killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups in Burkina Faso's north. Since 2015, the country has been battling a jihadist offensive in which thousands of civilians and security forces personnel have been killed and around two million people have been displaced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fifty women abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso: Report

Late last year, a clip filmed during a public event in South Sudan showing a stain spreading on the President Salvakia's pants went viral. The journalists who were covering the event were detained and accused of embarrassing the head of state and the country.

World of Africa: Concerns Grow Over Freedom of Press

A Ghanaian man in New York decided to put his time to good use. He sifted through the storage containers and bookshops and has now acquired the world's largest collection of African photography books.

New York: Ghanaian man creates the largest collection of books

An albino activist was sworn in to Malawi's parliament on Thursday, a first in a country where people with albinism have suffered discrimination and killings.

Overstone Kondowe won a by-election last month in central Malawi, a milestone after years of victimisation. &nbsp;

"Being the first person with albinism elected in this kind of office, there is high expectation, not only in Malawi, but the whole world is looking forward to what I would do," he told AFP soon after his swearing-in.

"My last word to persons with disability, and in particular persons with albinism, they need not to underrate themselves," he said.

"And they need to work hard towards their goal. I remain a model to them and I will inspire them more so that they aim higher," he added.

Malawi suffered a wave of assaults against albinos from late 2014.

At the height of the attacks in 2016, Kondowe founded the Association of People with Albinism in Malawi to push the government to take action.

Amnesty International says more than 20 albinos have been killed in Malawi since 2014.

In the last four months, Amnesty said seven attacks against albinos have been recorded, ranging from killings, tampering of graves, attempted abductions, and physical violence.

As in other countries in the region, albinos' body parts are used in rituals to bring wealth and luck.

Some albinos are also accused of being "vampires" who seek human blood for rituals, sometimes triggering vigilante violence in retaliation.

President Lazarus Chakwera has named Kondowe as his special adviser on people with disability. Kondowe is also the current chairperson of the African Union for Persons with Albinism.

Former UN independent expert on albinism Ikponwosa Ero told AFP she was elated by Kondowe’s election.

"Overstone’s election is a giant step forward in the protection of human rights of people with albinism in Malawi and the Africa region as a whole," she said.

"It shows that the context of discrimination is changing for the better for people with albinism in Malawi."

An albino activist was sworn in to Malawi's parliament on Thursday, a first in a country where people with albinism have suffered discrimination and killings. Overstone Kondowe won a by-election last month in central Malawi, a milestone after years of victimisation.

An albino activist was sworn in to Malawi's parliament on Thursday, a first in a country where people with albinism have suffered discrimination and killings. Overstone Kondowe won a by-election last month in central Malawi, a milestone after years of victimisation. "Being the first person with albinism elected in this kind of office, there is high expectation, not only in Malawi, but the whole world is looking forward to what I would do," he told AFP soon after his swearing-in. "My last word to persons with disability, and in particular persons with albinism, they need not to underrate themselves," he said. "And they need to work hard towards their goal. I remain a model to them and I will inspire them more so that they aim higher," he added. Malawi suffered a wave of assaults against albinos from late 2014. At the height of the attacks in 2016, Kondowe founded the Association of People with Albinism in Malawi to push the government to take action. Amnesty International says more than 20 albinos have been killed in Malawi since 2014. In the last four months, Amnesty said seven attacks against albinos have been recorded, ranging from killings, tampering of graves, attempted abductions, and physical violence. As in other countries in the region, albinos' body parts are used in rituals to bring wealth and luck. Some albinos are also accused of being "vampires" who seek human blood for rituals, sometimes triggering vigilante violence in retaliation. President Lazarus Chakwera has named Kondowe as his special adviser on people with disability. Kondowe is also the current chairperson of the African Union for Persons with Albinism. Former UN independent expert on albinism Ikponwosa Ero told AFP she was elated by Kondowe’s election. "Overstone’s election is a giant step forward in the protection of human rights of people with albinism in Malawi and the Africa region as a whole," she said. "It shows that the context of discrimination is changing for the better for people with albinism in Malawi."

First albino joins Malawi's parliament

Situation in Ethiopia is heating up as state media said on Friday that Ethiopian army had called on former army personnel to rejoin in order to fight Tigrayan forces advancing towards country's capital Addis Ababa. Nine anti-government factions have formed a new alliance with an aim of pushing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government out.

The anti-government alliance is called United Front of Ethiopian Federalist and Confederalist Forces and it includes forces of Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) which has been fighting against Ethiopia's federal forces. The 1-yearl-old conflict has killed thousands of people and forced more than two million out of their homes.

The federal army has appealed to former army personnel to rejoin setting the deadline of November 24.

In the past week, the government and local authorities have also told civilians in the capital to register their weapons and prepare to defend their neighburhoods.

African and Western nations have called for an immediate ceasefire

"We are considering establishing a transitional arrangement and we have agreed that the regime in power at this time must go as soon as possible," TPLF's Yohanees Abraha was quoted by Reuters as saying.

The nascent alliance was not in touch with Abiy's government but planned to begin liaising with foreign governments and bodies, he said.

Abiy's spokesperson, Billene Seyoum, asked for reaction to the formation of the alliance, referred Reuters to a comment she posted on Twitter in which she defended Abiy's rule since he took office in 2018.

She said in the post the opening of political space after Abiy took office provided ample opportunity for the opposition to settle differences at the ballot box. Abiy's party was re-elected in June. She did not refer directly to the new alliance.

Attorney General Gedion Temothewos called the alliance "a publicity stunt" and said some of the groups had a track record of "ethnic cleansing2.

TPLF spokesperson Getachew Reda also did not respond to requests for comment on Friday.

CEASEFIRE CALLS

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday called for a ceasfire, saying: "The conflict in Ethiopia must come to an end."

The spokespeople for the Ethiopian government and the TPLF did not respond to requests for comment on Blinken's call. On Thursday, the government's communication department said in a statement: "This is not a Country that Crumbles under Foreign Propaganda! We are fighting an existential war!"

(With inputs from agencies)

Situation in Ethiopia is heating up as state media said on Friday that Ethiopian army had called on former army personnel to rejoin in order to fight Tigrayan forces advancing towards country's capital Addis Ababa.

Situation in Ethiopia is heating up as state media said on Friday that Ethiopian army had called on former army personnel to rejoin in order to fight Tigrayan forces advancing towards country's capital Addis Ababa. Nine anti-government factions have formed a new alliance with an aim of pushing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government out. The anti-government alliance is called United Front of Ethiopian Federalist and Confederalist Forces and it includes forces of Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) which has been fighting against Ethiopia's federal forces. The 1-yearl-old conflict has killed thousands of people and forced more than two million out of their homes. The federal army has appealed to former army personnel to rejoin setting the deadline of November 24. In the past week, the government and local authorities have also told civilians in the capital to register their weapons and prepare to defend their neighburhoods. African and Western nations have called for an immediate ceasefire "We are considering establishing a transitional arrangement and we have agreed that the regime in power at this time must go as soon as possible," TPLF's Yohanees Abraha was quoted by Reuters as saying. The nascent alliance was not in touch with Abiy's government but planned to begin liaising with foreign governments and bodies, he said. Abiy's spokesperson, Billene Seyoum, asked for reaction to the formation of the alliance, referred Reuters to a comment she posted on Twitter in which she defended Abiy's rule since he took office in 2018. She said in the post the opening of political space after Abiy took office provided ample opportunity for the opposition to settle differences at the ballot box. Abiy's party was re-elected in June. She did not refer directly to the new alliance. Attorney General Gedion Temothewos called the alliance "a publicity stunt" and said some of the groups had a track record of "ethnic cleansing2. TPLF spokesperson Getachew Reda also did not respond to requests for comment on Friday. CEASEFIRE CALLS U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday called for a ceasfire, saying: "The conflict in Ethiopia must come to an end." The spokespeople for the Ethiopian government and the TPLF did not respond to requests for comment on Blinken's call. On Thursday, the government's communication department said in a statement: "This is not a Country that Crumbles under Foreign Propaganda! We are fighting an existential war!" (With inputs from agencies)

Ethiopian army calls on ex-servicemen to rejoin to fight opposing forces

Nearly 20000 Sudanese have rallied in the capital of Khartoum to demand a civilian-led transition to democratic government and accused the generals now in the power of derailing the transition to democracy.

Sudan: Sudanese demand civilian-led transition to democracy

Nearly 30 prisoners were killed in a battle between inmates equipped with firearms and grenades at a prison in Ecuador's largest city Tuesday, officials said.

It was the latest in a series of deadly prison clashes between rival drug gangs that have killed over 100 inmates this year.

Ecuador's attorney general's office said on Twitter it was investigating the deaths of 29 convicts at the Litoral Penitentiary in the city of Guayaquil, including six who were beheaded.

Officials gave conflicting statements on how many inmates were wounded, with the attorney general's office saying 42 while the national prison bureau earlier put that number at 48.

President Guillermo Lasso retweeted an announcement from the prison bureau saying order "has been restored at the Littoral Penitentiary after the Tuesday incidents."

Ecuador's prison system has become a battleground between prisoners linked to Mexican drug gangs -- mainly the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels.

Guayaquil, Ecuador's main port city, is a major hub for shipping South American cocaine north, especially to the United States.

Last week police confiscated two pistols, a revolver, some 500 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade, several knives, two sticks of dynamite and homemade explosives at one of the city's prisons.

Two weeks ago, Guayaquil's Prison Number 4 was attacked by drones, part of "a war between international cartels," prison authorities said. There were no casualties in the attack.

Ecuador's prison system has about 60 facilities designed for 29,000 inmates, but is burdened by overcrowding and staffing shortages.

The country's human rights ombudsman said there were 103 killings in prisons in 2020.

27 inmates died in prison riots in two jails in July, in an incident that forced the government to declare a state of emergency.

Nearly 30 prisoners were killed in a battle between inmates equipped with firearms and grenades at a prison in Ecuador's largest city Tuesday, officials said. It was the latest in a series of deadly prison clashes between rival drug gangs that have killed over 100 inmates this year.

Nearly 30 prisoners were killed in a battle between inmates equipped with firearms and grenades at a prison in Ecuador's largest city Tuesday, officials said. It was the latest in a series of deadly prison clashes between rival drug gangs that have killed over 100 inmates this year. Ecuador's attorney general's office said on Twitter it was investigating the deaths of 29 convicts at the Litoral Penitentiary in the city of Guayaquil, including six who were beheaded. Officials gave conflicting statements on how many inmates were wounded, with the attorney general's office saying 42 while the national prison bureau earlier put that number at 48. President Guillermo Lasso retweeted an announcement from the prison bureau saying order "has been restored at the Littoral Penitentiary after the Tuesday incidents." Ecuador's prison system has become a battleground between prisoners linked to Mexican drug gangs -- mainly the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels. Guayaquil, Ecuador's main port city, is a major hub for shipping South American cocaine north, especially to the United States. Last week police confiscated two pistols, a revolver, some 500 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade, several knives, two sticks of dynamite and homemade explosives at one of the city's prisons. Two weeks ago, Guayaquil's Prison Number 4 was attacked by drones, part of "a war between international cartels," prison authorities said. There were no casualties in the attack. Ecuador's prison system has about 60 facilities designed for 29,000 inmates, but is burdened by overcrowding and staffing shortages. The country's human rights ombudsman said there were 103 killings in prisons in 2020. 27 inmates died in prison riots in two jails in July, in an incident that forced the government to declare a state of emergency.

29 dead in Ecuador's latest prison violence: officials

Heavy rains and flash floods have hit 13 of Sudan’s 18 states, affecting more than 288,000 residents and refugees, according to the United Nations. Watch this report for more details.

Heavy rains trigger floods in Sudan

A coup attempt thwarted in Sudan Tuesday was planned by military and civilian operatives associated with former President Omar al-Bashir, the country’s prime minister said in a televised statement. Watch this report for more details.

Sudan government blames Al-Bashir loyalists for coup attempt

Unidentified attackers killed five Cameroonian soldiers and one civilian during a raid on a military outpost in the far north of the country, local authorities said on Tuesday, the second deadly raid in the area in the past week.

An army post in the village of Zigue was attacked at around 9 p.m. (2000 GMT) on Monday, according to two officials who asked not to be identified.

The attack follows a raid that took place around 50 km (30 miles) north of Zigue on Saturday, which was claimed by Islamic State. Eight soldiers were killed in that raid, according to the defence ministry.

Cameroon, alongside neighbouring Nigeria and Chad, has been battling the Boko Haram militant group for years, but more recently has clashed with fighters who identify themselves as Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP).

In the aftermath of the death of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau in May, ISWAP has sought to absorb Boko Haram fighters and unify the groups which had hitherto fought one another for control of territory.

Unidentified attackers killed five Cameroonian soldiers and one civilian during a raid on a military outpost in the far north of the country, local authorities said on Tuesday, the second deadly raid in the area in the past week.

Unidentified attackers killed five Cameroonian soldiers and one civilian during a raid on a military outpost in the far north of the country, local authorities said on Tuesday, the second deadly raid in the area in the past week. An army post in the village of Zigue was attacked at around 9 p.m. (2000 GMT) on Monday, according to two officials who asked not to be identified. The attack follows a raid that took place around 50 km (30 miles) north of Zigue on Saturday, which was claimed by Islamic State. Eight soldiers were killed in that raid, according to the defence ministry. Cameroon, alongside neighbouring Nigeria and Chad, has been battling the Boko Haram militant group for years, but more recently has clashed with fighters who identify themselves as Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP). In the aftermath of the death of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau in May, ISWAP has sought to absorb Boko Haram fighters and unify the groups which had hitherto fought one another for control of territory.

Attackers kill five soldiers, one civilian in north Cameroon, say officials

South African military said on Monday that it was deploying soldiers in order to control protests and quell violence that has erupted during demonstrations supporting ex-South Africa president Jacob Zuma. As of now, soldiers will be deployed in two provinces namely Guateng and KwaZulu-Natal. The latter is home province of Jacob Zuma.

Soldiers will also be deployed in Johannesburg, the commercial hub of South Africa which is witnessing widespread violence.

Zuma is currently serving 15-month sentence handed to him due to contempt of court.

"The South African National Defence Force has commenced with pre-deployment processes and procedures in line with a request for assistance received... to assist law enforcement agencies deployed in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces respectively to quell the unrest that has gripped both Provinces in the last few days," it said in a statement.

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Current President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa warned protesters against committing acts of violence.

“It is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.While there are those who may be hurt and angry at this moment, there can never be any justification for such violent, destructive and disruptive actions.This must be condemned by all South Africans at all costs as we are a nation committed to non-racialism and non-tribalism that is underpinned by the diversity and unity of all the people of South Africa, whatever their language, culture, religious beliefs and race,” the president said.

(With inputs from agencies)

South African military said on Monday that it was deploying soldiers in order to control protests and quell violence that has erupted during demonstrations supporting ex-South Africa president Jacob Zuma.

South African military said on Monday that it was deploying soldiers in order to control protests and quell violence that has erupted during demonstrations supporting ex-South Africa president Jacob Zuma. As of now, soldiers will be deployed in two provinces namely Guateng and KwaZulu-Natal. The latter is home province of Jacob Zuma. Soldiers will also be deployed in Johannesburg, the commercial hub of South Africa which is witnessing widespread violence. Zuma is currently serving 15-month sentence handed to him due to contempt of court. "The South African National Defence Force has commenced with pre-deployment processes and procedures in line with a request for assistance received... to assist law enforcement agencies deployed in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces respectively to quell the unrest that has gripped both Provinces in the last few days," it said in a statement. × Current President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa warned protesters against committing acts of violence. “It is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.While there are those who may be hurt and angry at this moment, there can never be any justification for such violent, destructive and disruptive actions.This must be condemned by all South Africans at all costs as we are a nation committed to non-racialism and non-tribalism that is underpinned by the diversity and unity of all the people of South Africa, whatever their language, culture, religious beliefs and race,” the president said. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa: Military deployed to quell violence by Zuma supporters

Sixteen Niger soldiers have been killed and another is missing after an ambush against a patrol in the Tahoua region near the Mali border, local officials said Sunday.

During the attack by "bandits" on Saturday the toll was "16 dead, six injured and one missing," Tahoua department secretary general Ibrahim Miko said on public television.

He attended the funeral of Lieutenant Maman Namewa, commander of the patrol which was attacked.

The vast desert area of Tahoua in the west of the country sits close to the borders of both Mali and Burkina Faso and has been plagued by jihadist violence since 2012.&nbsp;

In March an attack by suspected jihadists on three villages near Niger's border with Mali left a total of 141 people dead, according to the official toll.

They were the worst attacks committed by suspected jihadists in Niger in recent years.

The world's poorest nation according to the UN's development rankings for 189 countries, Niger is also struggling with Islamist insurgencies that have spilled over from Mali and Nigeria.&nbsp;

The attacks in western Niger are often attributed to groups affiliated to the Al-Qaeda and Islamic State groups.

Such attacks against civilians have multiplied this year, with over 300 people killed in villages and encampments in western Niger.

Sixteen Niger soldiers have been killed and another is missing after an ambush against a patrol in the Tahoua region near the Mali border, local officials said Sunday.

Sixteen Niger soldiers have been killed and another is missing after an ambush against a patrol in the Tahoua region near the Mali border, local officials said Sunday. During the attack by "bandits" on Saturday the toll was "16 dead, six injured and one missing," Tahoua department secretary general Ibrahim Miko said on public television. He attended the funeral of Lieutenant Maman Namewa, commander of the patrol which was attacked. The vast desert area of Tahoua in the west of the country sits close to the borders of both Mali and Burkina Faso and has been plagued by jihadist violence since 2012. In March an attack by suspected jihadists on three villages near Niger's border with Mali left a total of 141 people dead, according to the official toll. They were the worst attacks committed by suspected jihadists in Niger in recent years. The world's poorest nation according to the UN's development rankings for 189 countries, Niger is also struggling with Islamist insurgencies that have spilled over from Mali and Nigeria. The attacks in western Niger are often attributed to groups affiliated to the Al-Qaeda and Islamic State groups. Such attacks against civilians have multiplied this year, with over 300 people killed in villages and encampments in western Niger.

16 soldiers killed, one missing in Niger ambush: official

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